Every once in a while, you come across a literary work that is pure, refreshing, and authentic, while simultaneously calling you into action. Courageous Conversations Connect does just that. It’s a must-read game changer that will positively impact your life. It is no secret that life presents us with more questions sometimes than answers. That said, it has been my experience that the answers may be buried deep inside the very elusive conversations that many of us avoid like the plague. I met Dr. Argie Allen-Wilson many years ago when I was launching my Breaking the Silence Conference in Philadelphia, which was focused on bringing education, awareness and sensitivity to Mental Health and Wellness issues in our community, while shedding the stigma. She was then, and continues to be, a champion and advocate for individuals and families who struggle with both mental health challenges and everyday relationship issues that negatively impact our communities.

Dr. Argie and I have worked diligently together for many years fighting for social justice regarding mental wellness for all people, so when she asked me to write this foreword, I was honored because I knew that this book would be a difference maker for the masses. If we think long enough, I’m sure we all know someone who needs to have a courageous conversation with themselves or with someone else. Whether someone has lost a loved one, they’re in a job transition, they’re going through a divorce and are trying to figure out how to tell their children, or they’re so depressed that they no longer find joy in the simple pleasures in life: being courageous enough to have that tough conversation may be just what they need to reconnect with themselves or someone else. This is where Dr. Argie’s Courageous Conversations Connect book comes in handy. Over the many years of our friendship, we have had multiple conversations about why people don’t talk to each other when it matters most.

We’ve also talked about why we need to be in ongoing conversations with ourselves as well, especially when we’re at a crossroads or need to make a difficult decision. In one of our many talks, we both concluded that much of it boils down to fear: fear of rejection, fear of loss, fear of retaliation, fear of failure, fear of success, or just plain old fear of anything that people don’t want to deal with. This book puts to rest your fears and gives you a pathway to reset your mindset so that you can create a new paradigm shift. Reading Courageous Conversations Connect will enable you to give yourself permission to have the necessary conversations with yourself and others to create a healthier you as well as having more intentional, thoughtful and fulfilling relationships.

This is a book that should be in the hands of anyone who is struggling with fear or avoiding having that difficult conversation. It will give you that call to action you need and encourage you on your healing journey with courageous action steps along the way. Not only will you be stronger, but so will your relationships at the end of your process. Read this book and embark on your journey by having courageous conversations that connect. You’ll be glad you did!